The Chairman in Hong Kong Named Best Restaurant in Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2026
On March 25, 2026, The Chairman in Hong Kong reclaimed the prestigious title of Best Restaurant in Asia, a designation awarded by the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants Academy and generously sponsored by S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna. This recognition marks The Chairman's return to the number one spot for the first time since 2021, reaffirming its position as a premier destination for culinary enthusiasts. Renowned for its dedication to authentic Cantonese flavors, The Chairman's success reflects a deep appreciation for regional ingredients and seasonal cooking practices, illustrating the evolving landscape of Asian gastronomy.
The Asia's 50 Best Restaurants Academy comprises over 350 esteemed members, including influential chefs, restaurateurs, and food critics, who collaboratively determine the rankings through an extensive voting process. This year's list features restaurants from 17 different cities, with notable newcomers and returning establishments showcasing the diverse and vibrant dining scene across Asia.
Notably, the ceremony highlighted several other awards, including the Highest New Entry Award that went to Le Ru Yuan in Hangzhou, indicating a promising rise in Asia’s culinary scene. Lamdre in Beijing earned the Highest Climber Award, jumping 33 places on the list, which is sponsored by Lee Kum Kee, showcasing the dynamic nature of restaurant performances in the ever-competitive market.
Furthermore, Cho Eun-hee from Onjium in Seoul received the Asia's Best Female Chef Award, and Ardika Dwitama was recognized as Asia's Best Pastry Chef for her work at August in Jakarta. Zhang Yong, the mastermind behind The Chairman, was honored with the SevenRooms Icon Award, acknowledging his significant contribution to the culinary arts and his relentless quest for innovation.
In addition to honoring top chefs, the award ceremony celebrated restaurants committed to sustainability, with Baan Tepa in Bangkok winning the Sustainable Restaurant Award. The event illuminates a continuous commitment to addressing environmental concerns within the industry, promoting a shift towards eco-friendly dining practices.
During the award announcement, Rikki Tidball, Managing Director of Events at 50 Best, expressed her pride in the achievements of all restaurants featured in this year’s list. She stated, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s honorees, particularly The Chairman, which has once again ascended to the pinnacle of Asia’s culinary landscape. Their dedication to pushing gastronomic boundaries is a tribute to the exceptional talent and innovative spirit defining the dynamic food culture of Asia.”
The announcement of this prestigious listing serves not only to elevate the recognized establishments but also to inspire chefs and restaurateurs across the continent to pursue excellence in their culinary endeavors. As cities like Bangkok, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Seoul, and Singapore continue to dominate the rankings, food lovers and global travelers can anticipate a plethora of gastronomic experiences that reflect the richness of Asian culinary traditions. To view the full list from 1-50, interested readers can visit the official Asia's 50 Best Restaurants website. This triumph is not just a momentary accolade for The Chairman but a celebration of the ongoing evolution and recognition of Cantonese cuisine in the international culinary community. The future of dining in Asia looks promising, as more chefs aim to deliver unforgettable culinary experiences, solidifying Asia's position at the forefront of global gastronomy.